The effort and stress involved in most conventional workouts discourage people from getting in shape. Here are some activities that offer you the chance to lose some weight while having fun.
Walking
Walking can be a really fun way to lose weight and stay in shape. In fact, experts say that walking 10,000 steps a day can help keep you healthy. Some people think that walking only exercises the feet and legs. However, you should know that walking actually helps improve your cardiovascular system by building blood vessels so that you have more oxygen stored in your blood. This helps increase your stamina and helps you maintain your energy after a long day.
When you go for a walk, remember to enjoy the walk. Some people use treadmills, but that would be pretty boring and seem like too much work to be worth it. However, when you go for a real walk or even a jog, you will be able to enjoy watching what is going on around you. You might even manage to forget that you are exercising.
Video game
Oh yes, there are actually video games that can help you stay fit and active. This equates to a lot of fun and a lot of calories lost. One of the most popular active video games is DDR or Dance Dance Revolution. This video game consists of stepping on a dance floor while following the instructions on the screen. Just a few minutes in DDR will make your heart race, sweat pouring out, and your face smile.
Another option would be the ParaParaParadise dance machine. This game is actually based on a popular dance style in Japan called “Parapara”. Although the traditional modes have specific steps to follow in order for it to be considered a legitimate score, the game also offers a “freestyle mode” that allows you to be more creative and active. Offering different difficulties accompanied by energizing music, you’ll never realize you’re actually working out on this machine. A version for use with Sony’s eye toy is also available.
The Wii is the latest to come out with active video games. Using motion sensor controllers, a player will have to move in order to play. You need to hit when you play boxing games you need to swing the controller to wield your sword to kill the dragon.
Active gaming also helps boost morale by making you feel like you have accomplished something. There are high scores to beat, after all.
Martial Arts
Forget repetitive and seemingly pointless movements. What discourages people from doing aerobics or other types of traditional exercises is that they can be quite boring and actually only burn a few calories an hour.
Martial arts, on the other hand, can help you burn up to 1,000 calories an hour! Now that’s a little exercise.
In martial arts, your entire body will remain active, which means that you will be able to tone and shape every muscle in your body. Also, this training is far from boring. You get to learn a new skill, practice it against opponents, and generally focus on something other than how much weight you’re supposed to lose.
The good thing about martial arts is that each movement has its purpose. Whether it’s knocking out an enemy or regenerating life energy, martial arts is something where every move counts. Did you know that people who start practicing Tai-Chi during their retirement years can prolong their active life?
Dance
Dancing is another activity where you can get fit without thinking about exercise. It allows you to let go, get those muscles working and the blood pumping. Dancing is all about having fun and feeling good about your body and your movements. It is about self-expression and communication without words. The actual effort in dance can burn as many calories as martial arts!
Dancing allows you to learn a skill and improve your overall personality. It allows you to be more aware of what you can do as a person. Dancing also helps relieve stress and produces endorphins for that natural high.
Actually, several types of workouts are based on dance moves. Although these workouts are more or less focused on getting the same results as your regular exercise routine, the pace and pace involved makes exercise fun and more vigorous.
Swimming
Swimming is another activity that exercises the whole body. If you live near the beach or at least have a pool nearby, you should take the opportunity to exercise. Of course, to stay in shape when swimming, you will have to move. Lying in the pool will not help sculpt your body.
The good thing about this activity is all the resistance you have to deal with. The water, despite supporting his floating body, actually makes every move require extra effort. It also refreshes your body. This equates to a great intense yet comfortable workout.
Why should you stress when you can relax and get fit at the same time?